Why Is Cinco de Mayo A Holiday?

Cinco de Mayo is on Sunday and most of us will be celebrating in some way, but a lot of us don't even know why we are celebrating. And, no, the answer is not "because we need a day to drink margaritas and eat queso".

According to National Today, many people confuse Cinco de Mayo with Mexico’s Independence Day, when it's actually a day commemorating Mexico's victory over the French in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Cinco de Mayo isn't even a national holiday in Mexico!

So, as you throw back a few margaritas or have friends over for tacos and guac just remember that, even though the day is delicious and fun, it is also a day to honor Mexican-American culture.